Total Cost Estimate

The FEMA Public Assistance Program is a 75 percent reimbursement program

The State of Minnesota is funding 100 percent of the non-federal share for this disaster declaration

Current Status

All applicants have received their initial payments.

Event Summary

During September 22–24, 2010, heavy rainfall, ranging from 3 inches to more than 10 inches over the time period, caused severe flooding across several counties in southern Minnesota. The floods were exacerbated by existing wet conditions, resulting from excessive summer rainfalls of up to 20 inches, exceeding the historical average by more than 4 inches. The widespread flooding that occurred as a result caused evacuations of hundreds of residents, and extensive damages to residences, businesses, and infrastructure. In all, 21 counties in southern Minnesota were declared Federal disaster areas.

Swollen creeks and rivers left their banks and flooded neighborhoods in communities such as Owatonna, Pine Island, Pipestone, Truman, St. James, Zumbro Falls, and many others. Basement flooding was reported throughout the southern one third of Minnesota. Numerous state, county, and township roads were closed due to flooding. The Mississippi River rose above flood stage (14 feet) at St. Paul on September 29. This is the first time that the Mississippi River has reached above flood stage in the autumn.